The report calls for action in the field of homophobic and transphobic hate crime; non-discrimination; free movement between Member States, including for same-sex couples and their children; freedom of assembly at Pride events; access to employment, goods and services; and asylum.

The report also stresses that transgender people shouldn’t be considered mentally ill.

Finally, the European Parliament recalls that LGBT people’s fundamental rights are more likely to be protected if they have access to a form of legal union, including cohabitation, civil partnerships or marriage. It calls on Member States to consider such reforms.

The Rapporteur, Monika Flašíková-Beňová, commented after the vote: “I’m delighted that my report went through the same week the EU was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. The European project is founded on the ideals of equal rights and non-discrimination, including for LGBT people.”

“We should be proud to be as demanding as we are with ourselves, and get to work for a genuine equal society.”

Sophie in ‘t Veld MEP, Vice-President of the Committee on Civil Liberties and of the LGBT Intergroup, added: “I was shocked that the EPP submitted an alternative text which deleted all 14 paragraphs on LGBT equality. This shows how out of touch their group has become with modern times. Good sense prevailed, thankfully.”

The Intergroup on LGBTI Rights is an informal forum for Members of the European Parliament who wish to advance and protect the fundamental rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) people. Members of the Intergroup would usually take a positive stance on LGBTI issues when they draft reports or amendments, when they vote in the Parliament, or when they deal with constituency affairs.